DAYTONA BEACH – The mangled car disintegrated across the track, small pieces scattering into the stands, the engine plopping on the grass, just as winner Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s Chevy had crossed the finish line.

"I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for liberty and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it's marked by the blood of those who died defending it." — South Dakota senator John Thune

DAYTONA BEACH — It's no secret television has been a boon for everybody associated with sports — fans, athletes, coaches, commissioners and, of course, the billionaires who own and operate sports teams and leagues.